Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California
Intrusive Landlord
What is the standard of privacy for tenants in California? In this seemingly trivial issue, my landlord washed down the front door and garage of our townhome without our prior knowledge. He caused water to get into the foyer of the unit, inside the garage, and on the vehicles. We were left to clean it up. At what point do I have a valid complaint? I attempted to discuss this with my landlord and he told me that he was going to wash the front of the unit anytime he wishes and that I can call the president if I have a problem.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Intrusive Landlord
The standard of privacy is one of reasonableness; neither the statutes nor judges' decisions draw a 'bright line' between what is acceptable and what is objectionably intrusive. Generally, tenants are entitled to a fair amount of privacy.
What you describe has both privacy and property damage aspects. It is also the kind of dispute that is unwelcome in court, so I would advise both of you to try to work it out.
One possibility might be to send a polite but businesslike letter to the landlord, saying (1) you will wash your own doors at regular intervals and keep them spotless, (2) if he thinks your work is inadequate, you'd appreciate a first shot at correcting the problem; and (3) if any damage is done to your property by his careless washing, you'll send a bill.
Then try to be a model tenant in all other ways. If a small-claims lawsuit later becomes necessary, these steps should give you the best possible chance in the circumstances.
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